Startup Originals Team
Tata Steel, one of the world’s leading steel producers, is on a mission to transform its operations and customer experience by embracing cutting-edge digital technology. Even as a manufacturer of heavy industrial products, the company is drawing inspiration from rapid-delivery startups like Zepto, Zomato, and Blinkit-pioneers known for their lightning-fast service in the food and grocery sectors. Tata Steel’s Chief Information Officer, Jayanta Banerjee, recently shared insights into how advanced digital platforms and artificial intelligence have become central to this transformation.
Delivering Steel Faster Than Ever:
Jayanta Banerjee candidly admits that while Tata Steel can’t match the 10-minute delivery promise of food apps, they have made significant progress in speeding up the delivery of steel. Thanks to a major digital overhaul, Tata Steel can now reliably deliver products within 72 hours-a substantial improvement from the previous norm of about seven days. Depending on the product’s specifics, current deliveries typically take between three and seven days, but the aim is to make 72-hour delivery universally available.
Embracing Digital Transformation:
Tata Steel’s journey into digitalization began more than eight years ago. Today, the company operates with a suite of around 600 AI-powered tools, collecting nearly 11.2 petabytes of valuable operational data. These efforts have helped reshape not just the customer experience, but the very foundations of how Tata Steel works. The company’s powerful AI monitors every stage, from sourcing raw materials to handling logistics and ensuring timely delivery.
AI at the Heart of Operations:
Of the 600 AI models Tata Steel has developed, about 80% are actively used within the manufacturing division. These applications go far beyond simple process automation-they help enhance production, boost safety, and maintain high product standards. One notable example is the use of AI-based imaging models that detect defects during manufacturing, enabling more efficient quality control and safer workplaces.
A Legacy of Innovation:
Tata Steel has always prioritized staying ahead in both industry practice and technological adoption. The company’s digital transformation is driven by a strong focus on measurable returns. As Jayanta Banerjee explains, every dollar invested in new technology must contribute directly to the company’s bottom line. This ROI-based approach ensures that technological advancement is always paired with positive business results.
Conclusion:
By merging the agility of modern digital platforms with the rigor of industrial operations, Tata Steel is redefining what’s possible in the steel industry. Their bold push towards near-instant order fulfillment and smart manufacturing is setting new standards for efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction, reinforcing Tata Steel’s position not just as a steel leader, but as a tech innovator as well.
